1992 : Australian Premier Paul Keating touches the Queen, and is branded “The Lizard Of Oz” by the British media.

2000: Australian Prime Minister John Howard is accused of touching the Queen during a royal visit. Howard’s office issues a statement denying “any contact whatsoever”.

2009: Michelle Obama hugs the Queen during the G20 visit. The Queen appears to hug her back.

Perhaps it’s a question of changing times and the softened role of the monarchy, but I know one thing: if you’re going to touch QE2, make sure you’re not a male Australian politician.